Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is an icon—one of the original Walt Disney World resorts, instantly recognizable for its sleek A-frame design and the monorail gliding straight through the atrium. On our last stay here, we had a beautiful view of Bay Lake, and it was so peaceful waking up to the sunrise over the water each morning. It was the perfect way to start the day before heading into the parks! While the hotel’s atrium can be a bit lively (and noisy) with the monorail and bustling restaurants, having that serene lake view provided a wonderful balance.

Whether you’re traveling with young kids, looking for fantastic dining, or simply want to be as close as possible to Magic Kingdom, the Contemporary is a top-tier choice.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Disney’s Contemporary Resort—from room types to dining, pools, and amenities—to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next Disney vacation.

Should I Stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort? Here’s Who Will Love It

This resort is perfect for families and Disney fans who value convenience and a touch of Disney history. Here’s who will love staying at the Contemporary:

✨ Families with Young Kids: If your little ones still need mid-day naps or early bedtimes, you can’t get much closer to Magic Kingdom than this! It’s just a short monorail ride—or even a quick 5–10 minute walk—back to the resort.

✨ Disney History Buffs: The Contemporary is one of Disney World’s original resorts, opening in 1971 alongside Magic Kingdom. If you love classic Disney nostalgia, you’ll appreciate staying at this legendary hotel.

✨ Foodies & Signature Dining Fans: Between California Grill (with stunning Magic Kingdom views) and Steakhouse 71, this resort offers some of the best dining in Disney World.

✨ Guests Who Love a Modern Aesthetic: If you prefer sleek, contemporary design over traditional theming, this resort is a perfect fit. The clean lines, minimalist decor, and lake views make for a relaxing stay.

✨ Monorail Resort Fans: Being on the monorail loop means you have seamless access to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT—no buses required.

Where Is Disney’s Contemporary Resort Located?

Disney’s Contemporary Resort sits right next to Magic Kingdom, making it one of the most convenient places to stay for park access. It’s also located along Bay Lake, offering beautiful waterfront views.

How to Get to the Disney Parks & Disney Springs from the Contemporary

Magic Kingdom: This is one of the best perks of the Contemporary. You can easily walk (about 7-10 minutes) to Magic Kingdom. At the end of the day, when you’re feet are tired and achy, the Contemporary is the first stop after leaving the Magic Kingdom!

EPCOT: Take the monorail and transfer at the Transportation & Ticket Center (about 15 minutes).

Hollywood Studios & Animal Kingdom: Use Disney’s complimentary bus service.

Disney Springs: Take a bus or a ride-share service.

Accommodations & Room Types at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers two main buildings: the A-frame Tower (where the monorail runs through) and the Garden Wing, located just behind the main tower near the pool. Here’s a look at the room options:

Standard Rooms:

• Located in both the Main Tower and Garden Wing
• Views: Theme Park, Lake, or Resort Grounds
• Bed Options: Two Queen Beds or One King Bed
• New Incredibles-Themed Decor with sleek, modern furnishings

Deluxe Rooms & Suites

• More spacious accommodations, with separate living areas
• Prime Theme Park or Bay Lake views
• Ideal for larger families or those wanting extra space

Disney Vacation Club Villas at Bay Lake Tower

In addition to the Main Tower and the Garden Wing, there’s also another building called Bay Lake Tower. This Disney Vacation Club resort is connected to the Contemporary Resort via a convenient sky bridge and offers villa-style accommodations ranging from deluxe studios to three-bedroom grand villas. Designed for guests who want extra space and home-like amenities, Bay Lake Tower features kitchenettes or full kitchens, separate living areas, and washer/dryer units in larger villas. Plus, guests staying here still enjoy all the perks of the Contemporary, including walking access to Magic Kingdom and use of the monorail.

• Studio, One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Villas
• Includes kitchenettes or full kitchens (great for extended stays)
• Sky Bridge Access to the Contemporary for easy dining and transportation

Club Level (Atrium Club & Tower Club)

For those looking for a VIP experience, the Club Level rooms offer extra perks, including:

• Access to the exclusive lounge, serving complimentary food & drinks
• Personalized concierge service for dining reservations & planning
• Some of the best Theme Park view rooms for fireworks

What is the Contemporary’s Club Level?

For those looking to add an extra layer of luxury to their stay, Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers two Club Level options: the Atrium Club and the Tower Club. Both provide exclusive amenities, personalized service, and access to a private lounge with breathtaking views.

Atrium Club

Located on the 12th floor, the Atrium Club offers a mix of Standard and Theme Park View rooms, providing guests with stunning sights of either Bay Lake or Cinderella Castle. Guests staying in the Atrium Club enjoy access to the Atrium Club Lounge, which serves daily refreshments, including continental breakfast, afternoon snacks, evening hors d’oeuvres, and a selection of beer and wine. The lounge’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer a spectacular vantage point for watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

Tower Club

For the most exclusive experience, the Tower Club is located on the 14th floor and features a more private, intimate setting. In addition to the deluxe food and beverage offerings provided throughout the day, guests of the Tower Club enjoy a selection of suites, making it an excellent choice for families or those looking for a more spacious stay. The Tower Club Lounge also offers unparalleled views of Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake, making it a prime spot for fireworks viewing.

Club Level Perks

Guests staying in either Club Level enjoy:
✅ Access to the Club Level Lounge with complimentary food and drinks throughout the day
✅ Personalized Concierge Services for reservations and planning assistance
✅ Evening turndown service with extra touches of luxury
✅ Exclusive fireworks viewing areas

Whether you choose the Atrium Club or the Tower Club, staying Club Level at Disney’s Contemporary Resort enhances your experience with extra comfort, convenience, and those little Disney details that make your stay even more magical.

Best Restaurants at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

One of my favorite things about staying at the Contemporary is the dining—it’s home to some of the best restaurants at Disney World!

Signature Dining:

California Grill – This rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views of Magic Kingdom and fireworks. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients, sushi, and an award-winning wine list.

Steakhouse 71 – Inspired by the opening year of Disney World (1971), this stylish steakhouse serves delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including one of the best burgers on property.

Character Dining:

Chef Mickey’s – One of the most popular character dining experiences, featuring Mickey, Minnie, and friends. A must for families with young kids!

Casual & Quick-Service Dining:

Contempo Café – A great quick-service option right inside the Grand Canyon Concourse, serving sandwiches, salads, and Disney’s famous cupcakes.

Outer Rim Lounge – A relaxed lounge with great cocktails and a view of Bay Lake.

Pools & Recreation at the Contemporary

• Feature Pool: A lakeside pool with a waterslide, cabanas, and hot tubs.
• Bay Lake Pool: A quieter option if you prefer a more peaceful swim.
• Movies Under the Stars & Campfire: Cozy up for a Disney movie or make s’mores by the fire.
• Boat Rentals & Watersports: Rent a pontoon boat or take a guided fishing excursion on Bay Lake.
• Fitness Center & Jogging Trail: A scenic 1-mile jogging trail around the resort.

Shopping at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Bayview Gifts – Disney merchandise, contemporary-themed resort souvenirs, and high-end bags & jewelry.

Fantasia Market & Fantasia Gift Shop – Snacks, travel essentials, and kids’ toys.

Why Stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort?

• Walking Distance to Magic Kingdom – The ultimate convenience for families.
• Monorail Access – Skip the buses and enjoy an easy ride to Magic Kingdom & EPCOT.
• Incredible Dining – Home to California Grill, Steakhouse 71, and Chef Mickey’s.
• Fireworks Views – Some rooms and California Grill offer stunning views of Happily Ever After.

FAQs About Disney’s Contemporary Resort

How long does it take to walk from the Contemporary to Magic Kingdom?

One of the biggest perks of staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the easy walk to Magic Kingdom! The dedicated walkway takes about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your pace. It’s the shortest walk of any Disney resort to a theme park, making it a huge convenience—especially for families with little ones who might need a quick return to the room for a nap.

Is the Contemporary a Deluxe Resort?

Yes! Disney’s Contemporary Resort is one of Disney World’s Deluxe Resorts, meaning it offers spacious accommodations, top-tier dining, prime park access, and extra perks like Extended Evening Hours for guests.

What makes Disney’s Contemporary Resort special?

• Iconic history (one of the first Disney World resorts)
• The monorail runs through the resort!
• Walking distance to Magic Kingdom
• Unparalleled dining options

Was the Contemporary the first hotel at Disney World?

Yes! Disney’s Contemporary Resort opened on October 1, 1971, the same day as Magic Kingdom. Alongside Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, it was one of the original two hotels at Walt Disney World. Its modern A-frame design and unique history (with rooms originally constructed off-site and then lifted into place) make it an iconic part of Disney’s past and present.

Where is the Contemporary Resort Convention Center?

The Contemporary’s Convention Center is located on the south side of the resort, near Bay Lake Tower. It features ballrooms, meeting rooms, and event spaces that host everything from business conferences to Disney Fairy Tale Weddings.

How much does it cost to rent the boats at the Contemporary Resort?

Boat rentals from the Contemporary’s Marina have been a beloved activity for years, though availability can change. Prices typically range from $45 to $90+ per half-hour, depending on the type of boat. Options have included pontoon boats, Sea Raycers (mini speed boats), and specialty cruises. It’s always best to check with the resort’s marina for the latest rental offerings and pricing.

Can you see the fireworks from the Contemporary?

Absolutely! The Contemporary is one of the best resorts for viewing Magic Kingdom’s fireworks. You can watch Happily Ever After from multiple spots:

• California Grill offers an incredible rooftop view with a private outdoor terrace for guests who dined there that evening.
• The Contemporary’s 4th-floor observation deck is open to all resort guests.
• Many lake-view and theme park-view rooms offer fireworks views right from the balcony!

How much does it cost to stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort?

Prices vary by season, but expect:

• Standard rooms: $500–$800+ per night
• Theme Park View rooms: $700–$1,000+ per night
• Suites & Club Level: $1,000+ per night

Ready to Stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort? Let’s Plan Your Trip!

If you’re ready to experience the magic of the Contemporary, I’d love to help! Let’s plan your Walt Disney World vacation with expert guidance and complimentary concierge services!

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